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Tonne: meaning, definitions and examples

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tonne

 

[ tʌn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

unit of weight

A metric unit of weight equal to 1,000 kilograms or approximately 2,204.62 pounds. It is commonly used in countries that have adopted the metric system for measuring weight.

Synonyms

kilogram, metric ton

Examples of usage

  • The shipment weighed over two tonnes.
  • The elephant weighed three tonnes.
Context #2 | Noun

British spelling of 'ton'

In British English, 'tonne' is the spelling used for the metric ton. It is important to distinguish between the tonne and the traditional ton, which is equivalent to 2,000 pounds.

Synonyms

kilogram, metric ton

Examples of usage

  • The British construction industry often uses the tonne as a unit of weight.

Translations

Translations of the word "tonne" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tonelada

🇮🇳 टन

🇩🇪 Tonne

🇮🇩 ton

🇺🇦 тонна

🇵🇱 tona

🇯🇵 トン (ton)

🇫🇷 tonne

🇪🇸 tonelada

🇹🇷 ton

🇰🇷 톤 (ton)

🇸🇦 طن

🇨🇿 tuna

🇸🇰 tona

🇨🇳 吨 (dūn)

🇸🇮 tona

🇮🇸 tonn

🇰🇿 тонна

🇬🇪 ტონა

🇦🇿 tonna

🇲🇽 tonelada

Etymology

The word 'tonne' originated from the French word 'tonne,' which in turn came from the Latin word 'tonna' meaning a large cask or barrel. The use of the metric tonne as a unit of weight was established in the 19th century as part of the metric system. It has since become widely accepted in many countries around the world.

See also: tonic.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,672, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.